Panicum lycopodioides | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
(unranked): | Angiosperms |
(unranked): | Monocots |
(unranked): | Commelinids |
Order: | Poales |
Family: | Poaceae |
Genus: | Panicum |
Species: | P. lycopodioides |
Binomial name | |
Panicum lycopodioides Bory ex Nees |
Panicum lycopodioides, common name false club-moss panic grass or (in French) panic faux-lycopode, is endemic to the French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean. It is found at high altitudes on the island, at elevations over 2000 m (6700 feet). The highest point on the island is Piton des Neiges, 3069 m (10,230 feet). The plant requires full sun-light and a cold climate.
The specific epithet "lycopodioides" means "similar to Lycopodium" in reference to the plant's general habitus superficially resembling certain species of club-moss. Stems grow horizontally, branching frequently, thus forming mats pressed against the ground. Leaves are small, pressed against the stem like the scales of Lycopodium.